Duterte’s Tough Smoking Stance

President Rodrigo Duterte has signed an executive order banning smoking in public across the country, making it one of the strictest anti-tobacco laws in Southeast Asia.

The ban covers both indoor and outdoor smoking and has a maximum penalty of four months in jail and a fine of PP5,000 (US$100). It also covers existing bans on tobacco advertisements, promotions, or sponsorship, which are subject to fines of up to PP400,000 and maximum jail terms of three years and possible revocation of business permits. The new ban requires designated smoking areas not larger than 10 sqm. be set up for adults only and must be at least 10 meters from building entrances or exits. Police-led anti-smoking task forces will also be created in towns and cities.

The smoking ban also covers vaping or the use of e-cigarettes and will apply in casinos, including gaming floors and entertainment rooms, and inside airport buildings, except in designated outdoor smoking areas.